Press Release

SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) introduced the SanDisk Memory Vault, the first product in a new category of devices that are designed for long-term data preservation. SanDisk announced the device today as part of a comprehensive new suite of retail products.

The Heralder Series is a fast-action messenger bag for on-the-move photographers, such as photojournalists and event photographers. With The Heralder’s Quick Top Access, photographers will never miss a beat of the action, or be scooped by the competition, because it eliminates fumbling with gear. With just one quick zip, users can access gear and get shooting in a split second!

Sekonic announced a free downloadable upgrade to its L-758 Light Meter application software ("Sekonic Data Transfer Software" for Macintosh) and the USB driver for the latest versions of the Macintosh operating system: OS 10.7 (Lion) and OS 10.6 (Snow Leopard).

Sekonic's new Version 2.1 Data Transfer Software is used to easily create and edit camera exposure profiles and then transfer them to the L-758DR DigitalMaster for extremely accurate control of exposure. Along with the sensor's dynamic range, it records the unique variations of a digital camera, such as the effects of shutter speed and aperture mechanisms as well as the characteristics of the lens in use. The Sekonic L-758DR is the only meter that can be calibrated to read light the way a particular camera system reads light.

Phase One announced open enrollment for its New Zealand Phase One Digital Artist Series (PODAS) workshop. For seven days, participants will experience dramatic vistas -- beautiful lakes to glaciers and ice cliffs -- guaranteed to inspire and delight. Top pro photographers support a small student-to-instructor ratio for a high-quality learning experience.

The popular press printed PhotoBook by Zookbinders and PhotoBook Plus products now include the option of Satin paper. The smooth texture of the Satin finish is the closest replica to real photographic (silver halide) paper, but without a high price tag. This third paper option hits the sweet spot between Zookbinders’ original Glossy finish, which features a laminated page, and Matte finish, which offers a fine-art-look and rich pebble texture.

Corel announced the release of Corel PaintShop Pro X4, the latest version of its award-winning photo editing software. PaintShop Pro is said to deliver ‘DSLR’ power at a ‘point-and-shoot’ price while offering an uncompromising depth and selection of pro-quality tools to expertly manage, adjust, edit and share your entire photo collection.

onOne Software, Inc., announced Perfect Photo Suite 6 along with new products Perfect Effects, Perfect Portrait, Perfect Mask, and an update to Perfect Layers. All products in the Perfect Photo Suite 6 now work as standalone applications in addition to working directly from within Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, Apple Aperture and Adobe Photoshop.

Nik Software announced its much-anticipated Color Efex Pro 4, the company’s latest version of its popular digital photographic filters for retouching and creative enhancements. Recognized for over a decade as the professional’s choice in photographic filters, the 54 total filters of Color Efex Pro 4 offers a new generation of technologies and features for creating stunning effects. Color Efex Pro 4 introduces stackable filter combinations, visual presets, filter recipes, and new filters such as Detail Extractor, Vintage Film Efex, and Image Borders. The release also includes a new History Browser, improvements to imaging algorithms, greater performance, and enhanced usability. To watch videos and join special live online preview sessions, visit www.niksoftware.com/colorefexpro.

“Creating a new generation of features and technologies for Color Efex Pro 4 was inspired by the professionals who use it,” said Michael J. Slater, President and CEO of Nik Software. “Over 400 professional photographers test and inspire our team through a lively beta group process that ultimately helps us deliver extraordinary products like Color Efex Pro 4.”

Starting September 2011, Carl Zeiss will be offering four new diameters for UV and POL filters (circular): 52 mm, 55 mm, 62 mm and 77 mm. With these new sizes, the company is expanding its range of filters, which until now have only been available in diameters 58 mm, 67 mm, 72 mm and 82 mm. Additional diameter sizes will follow in January 2012: 43 mm and 46 mm as UV filters and 95 mm as a UV and POL filter. This will complete Carl Zeiss’ UV and POL filter program for the most common lens diameters.

“The premium Carl Zeiss T* UV and POL filters meet only the highest quality standards,” said Michael Schiehlen, Director of Sales for the Camera Lens Division of Carl Zeiss AG. “The filter threads and optics glasses are adjusted to the lenses from Carl Zeiss, but they are also compatible with lenses from other manufacturers.” The T* coating used onCarl Zeiss lenses is also used on its filters. The T* anti-reflective coating minimizes flare on glass-air surfaces and improves light transmission. Carl Zeiss T* UV and POL filters can be easily changed and used in combination with lens shades. Furthermore, they feature a compact design and front thread. Commercially available lens caps can be used with the filters.

The Graslon Spark is a new flash diffuser that helps make pictures taken with the built-in pop-up flash more pleasing. By creating a larger light source with a series of internal mirrors, the Spark reduces overblown highlights and softens shadows enabling users to take further advantage of the built in pop-up flash.